“When we discussed writing our full-length record, we sought out ways to translate feeling into the music. We wanted to convey emotion, rather than just a sound or a story. We wanted to put the listener in the scenery where we wrote it. We went on a three-week adventure…” – Josiah Sampson – Kids, Guitar

Kids is an eclectic four piece American Indie Rock band formed in 2012 by guitarist Josiah Sampson, bassist/vocalist Joshua Diaz, drummer Matthew Barrios and guitarist Christian Gonzalez. Hailing from South Florida, Kids strives to deliver a dynamic musical experience. Founded on brotherhood; these four individuals unite their creative minds to bring you on a melodic adventure with hopes of finding adolescence into undiscovered worlds.

After the 2013 release of their EP, Sink or Swim, created an energetic and passionate fan base, Kids wanted to bring their fans, new and old, an inspired treat. They retreated to the mountains of Chattanooga TN and submerged themselves in nature in order to gain inspiration, so that their fans could experience a dream-like escape just by listening to their music, eliciting emotion and feeling.

In January 2015, KIDS released Rich Coast, streaming the album in it’s entirety exclusively on The Huffington Post. The album was artfully created while the band was camping and hiking the Appalachian Trail. Inspired by the thrills of nature and the antiquities of silent films, Rich Coast is filled with gut-wrenching lyrics and theatrical imagery that gives the album an otherworldly picturesque feel. The band finds their signature voice in this record by adding a vintage cinematic edge to their pop-indie style songwriting. KIDS is proving that they’re not just an indie-rock band, they’re an all-inclusive musical experience. Their song, “Sunshine” is currently in the tv trailer for the movie, “Woman In Gold” featuring Helen Mirren, Ryan Reynolds and Katie Holmes, which you can view here . You can also enjoy their latest video for their new single, “Second Star on the Right” below.

All Access Music writer, Nicole DeRosa had a chance to ask guitarist, Christian Gonzalez a.k.a. “Papi” a few questions. Read more in their Q&A below!

Hi Christian! Where does this interview find you today? What’s on the agenda today besides our interview?

Today we are all spending some time with our families. Always have to show them love!

For those not as familiar with you and your music, how did you get your start in music? Who or what was the catalyst for you?

We’ve all been playing music since our teens. Some of us have been in bands together growing up and what not.

The catalyst was basically our friendship. We love playing and creating music together.

You released your full length album, Rich Coast in January of this year. What did you learn between your break out EP, Sink or Swim and playing live that you felt you wanted to infuse into Rich Coast?

We wanted to infuse the unity we showed on stage into this record. We’ve heard from a couple of fans that they love the amount of joy and unity we show on stage. Infusing that brotherhood into this record was important. Also, having no rules when it comes to writing. So many antique and unique instruments were played on this record. I don’t believe a synth pad would have captured the same sound.

I understand the Appalachian Trail played a big part in the inspiration throughout Rich Coast. Can you share with our readers what that experience was like for you guys?

“It was magical. Leaving our stressful lives behind, muting reality and just writing and hanging with your best mates, it can’t get any better than that. Going on adventures during the day and writing music while watching old Kung Fu/Western movies. Shout out to the gas station with 20 Western/Kung Fu DVDs for 5 bucks.”

Can you share with me what your inspiration was for your infectious single, “Second Star on the Right”?

“Second Star on the Right” was inspired by our inner child. We all have one inside. The song speaks adventure itself. Not caring about the grown up world and just being free. Some people just happen to lose sight of it when deciding to grow up. Us? We kept ours safe and sound.

Who are your musical influences?

There’s many artists we look up to, but our musical influence is our daily lives. Plain and simple.

Do you remember the first album you bought for yourself?

The first record I ever bought was the New Found Glory album, Sticks and Stones.

What was the first song you fell in love with and why?

That’s a tough question. Probably “King of Pain” by The Police.

Who would your dream collaboration be with (living or dead)?

Daft Punk. Hands down.

Who is in your current playlist? Any artists, musicians or genres we might be surprised to find in there?

What’s on tap next for KIDS? What are you most excited about in 2015?

Lots of touring. We’re going to be pushing out some new video content in the coming months, so definitely keep an eye out. Just make sure to sign up to our mailing list at thebandkids.com to get the latest scoop.

About the Author

Nicole DeRosa joined the All Access Music Group family in February 2012. She loves the infectious energy and enthusiasm of the music industry and she feels right at home having music compliment her every day. Nicole blends her experience and skills which she has culled from her time working in New York as a photo researcher and editor at Entertainment Weekly and Harpers Bazaar Magazine. After New York, Nicole moved to London for school and there she stood in line for hours on Oxford Street to hear Paul McCartney play an impromptu concert on a rooftop. Another notable experience while living in London was her first time ever calling into a radio station, she won an invite to a record release party with the Beastie Boys for their album 'Ill Communication'. "I love London as it has such a vibrant and diverse music scene and I couldn't help but go out every night to check out gig after gig. It was a wonderful time." Living near the notable Sherpards Bush Empire music venue one of her most favorite concerts to date was seeing Bjork. Nicole has also worked for Walt Disney World in Product Development and later went on to work at Disney's Feature Animation Archives in Florida. Nicole has a passion for travel and adventure and has always wanted to live in California so she packed up and moved four years ago to the "left coast" and has been loving it ever since.